ActionSA has officially lodged a formal complaint with the Public Protector's office, calling for a thorough investigation into Resolve Communications and its interactions with ministers in the Government of National Unity (GNU). This action comes in the wake of significant allegations suggesting that the public relations firm, which is owned by former Democratic Alliance leader Tony Leon, facilitated meetings between its clients and several GNU ministers.
Allegations of political pressure
Among the claims are assertions that Elon Musk's Starlink met with Communications Minister Solly Malatsi and was subsequently pressured by Tony Leon regarding the speed of the government's response. Furthermore, allegations indicate that companies associated with Resolve Communications exerted pressure on ministers, a situation that has reportedly been confirmed by both the Minister of Agriculture and the former Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment.
Lobbying or state capture
While both Tony Leon and current DA leader Geordin Hill-Lewis have dismissed these activities as standard lobbying, ActionSA suggests these actions resemble historical patterns of state capture, where powerful figures sought illicit access to government decision-making. Past incidents are also noted, such as when Leon allegedly attempted to facilitate a large contract for a client with former Johannesburg mayor Herman Mashaba, an incident which reportedly resulted in Mashaba lodging a complaint.
Next steps and accountability
ActionSA has stated that its investigation will extend beyond this initial complaint. The party intends to submit questions to all DA ministers and deputies regarding their engagements with Resolve Communications and plans to request that the Minister of Communications and representatives from the firm appear before a parliamentary committee to answer for their conduct. ActionSA maintains that it will keep applying pressure to uncover the truth and ensure consequences for any proven wrongdoing.